beginner telescope

A friend called me to ask advice about getting a first telescope for
her 9 year old son. I have casually been interested in astronomy for
30 years and have a C5. I've been very happy with the C5 and haven't
looked at any equipment in over 10 years and don't really know
anything about what's on the market now. I'm tempted to recommend an
80mm refractor. I'm also wondering about goto scopes - I have no idea
how well they work and if there's any significant difference among
brands. I know there's value in learning to read charts and star hop
(that's all I've ever done) but I know others may get frustrated with
this.

I don't know their price range, but I assume low end.

Any thoughts on what I should suggest?

Thanks.

Charles Lerner

.

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